Yankees say goodbye to John Sterling, legendary sports broadcaster

The New York Yankees bid farewell to longtime play-by-play announcer John Sterling, who announced his retirement effective immediately. Sterling, who called over 5,600 games for the Yankees, will be honored before Saturday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium.

Sterling’s broadcasting career spanned from 1989 to 2019, with a stretch of 5,060 consecutive games. Known for his enthusiastic and personalized home run calls, Sterling became a beloved figure for Yankees fans around the world.

The Yankees praised Sterling for his passion for baseball, broadcasting, and the team, noting that he was a pillar for fans who relied on his voice as the soundtrack of their seasons. Despite health concerns in recent years, Sterling continued to be a familiar presence in the broadcast booth.

Sterling expressed gratitude for his 64-year broadcasting career, saying he was a “very blessed human being” to have been able to broadcast for the Yankees for 36 years. WFAN, the radio station that employed Sterling, acknowledged his iconic career and the impact he had on Bronx Bombers fans.

The first pitch for Saturday’s game is set for 1:05 p.m. EDT, with Sterling scheduled to visit the WFAN booth during the game and participate in the pregame ceremony. Yankees fans and colleagues alike will have the opportunity to celebrate Sterling’s legendary career and bid him a fond farewell.